By: Clint Neumann
Weekend Matchup Preview
The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team (7-7, 3-5 NSIC) faces a pivotal weekend with home games against two formidable opponents: #4 Minot State (17-0, 8-0 NSIC) on Friday at 7:30 PM and (RV) MSU-Moorhead (10-4, 5-3 NSIC) on Saturday at 5:30 PM. The Cougars will look to build momentum after a dominant win over Minnesota Crookston while attempting to secure critical wins to improve their NSIC standing. These games represent crucial opportunities for USF to make a statement in the conference race.
Scouting Minot State Beavers
Minot State enters the matchup as the only unbeaten team in the NSIC, boasting a flawless 17-0 overall record and an 8-0 mark in conference play. The Beavers' success is fueled by a dynamic offense averaging 83.8 points per game (2nd NSIC) and an efficient defense allowing just 67.4 points per game (5th NSIC). Their +16.4 scoring margin leads the NSIC, while they also excel in field-goal percentage (49.5%, 2nd) and three-point shooting (38.5%, 1st). Minot's interior dominance is evident in their +9.2 rebounding margin (1st NSIC) and 3.9 blocks per game (2nd). The Beavers have shown remarkable consistency, winning their conference games by an average margin of 14.2 points.
Key Players to Watch
- Caleb Van De Griend: A force on both ends of the court, Van De Griend is Minot's engine. He leads the Beavers in both scoring (19.2 PPG) and rebounding (12.6 RPG) while shooting an incredible 76.4% from the field. His efficiency in the paint, combined with his ability to dominate the boards, makes him a constant double-double threat. He also contributes defensively with 1.0 blocks per game.
- Jalen Cook: Cook is a reliable offensive option, averaging 15.6 points while shooting 44.9% from the field and 39.4% from three-point range. His scoring versatility is complemented by his ability to make key plays, adding 1.8 assists per game.
- Jaxon Gunville: The Beavers' sharpshooter, Gunville knocks down 3.5 three-pointers per game on 39.6% shooting from beyond the arc. His perimeter scoring stretches defenses, creating opportunities for his teammates.
- Sam West: West is the glue for Minot, contributing across the board with 9.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. He also leads the team in steals (1.5 per game), showcasing his defensive tenacity.
- Ayouba Berthe: A consistent secondary scorer, Berthe averages 12.2 points per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 38.5% from three. His ability to score in transition and from deep makes him a key contributor.
Head-to-Head History
The Cougars hold a 12-6 all-time record against the Beavers, but Minot swept the series last season, including a 79-55 win at the Stewart Center. Historically, USF has fared much better at home, posting a 7-2 record in Sioux Falls.
Scouting MSU-Moorhead Dragons
The Dragons, receiving votes in the latest national rankings, are 10-4 overall and 5-3 in the NSIC. They are coming off back-to-back losses but remain a balanced and disciplined team. Moorhead averages 72.3 points per game while holding opponents to 66.4 points (2nd NSIC). Their efficient defense is bolstered by a +5.2 rebounding margin (3rd NSIC). Offensively, they shoot 45.7% from the field (8th NSIC) and convert 73.3% of free throws (4th NSIC). Their biggest strength lies in limiting mistakes, averaging just 10.4 turnovers per game (4th NSIC). The Dragons have been particularly strong in road games, posting a 4-0 record away from home.
Key Players to Watch
- Jacob Beeninga: The Dragons' leading scorer at 17.7 points per game, Beeninga is a clutch performer who shoots 90.6% from the free-throw line. His ability to attack the rim and knock down perimeter shots makes him a tough cover. However, he hasn't played since December 20, leaving questions about his availability this weekend.
- Logan Kinsey: A consistent scorer and rebounder, Kinsey contributes 14.3 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. His ability to finish inside and draw fouls (54 free-throw attempts this season) makes him a reliable offensive presence.
- Jacob Jennissen: The 7'1" forward anchors Moorhead's interior, averaging 10.5 points and a team-leading 7.9 rebounds per game. He also ranks among the NSIC leaders in field-goal percentage (62.4%) and blocks (0.9 per game).
- Shaun Wysocki: Wysocki provides an efficient scoring option, averaging 8.6 points per game on 56.8% shooting from the field. He's also a solid rebounder, pulling down 4.4 boards per contest.
- Carson Johnson: Freshman Carson Johnson has thrived since stepping into the starting lineup, averaging 17.7 points, 4.0 assists, and shooting 41.2% from three-point range in three games. His quick adjustment to a key role makes him a critical threat for the Dragons' offense this weekend.
Head-to-Head History
The Cougars trail 5-8 in the all-time series but split last season's matchups. USF secured a thrilling 70-68 road victory, led by Jack Thompson's 34-point performance, while the Dragons responded with a win in Sioux Falls.
Cougars at a Glance
USF sits at 7-7 overall and 3-5 in the NSIC, looking to build consistency in conference play. The Cougars' strengths lie in rebounding and ball movement. They rank 2nd in the NSIC in rebounding margin (+7.7) and lead the conference in assists per game (16.4). Offensively, USF averages 75.4 points per game (7th NSIC) while shooting 45.1% from the field (10th). However, turnovers (15.2 per game, 15th NSIC) remain a challenge.
Key Players to Watch
- Noah Puetz: Puetz leads the Cougars in scoring at 13.1 points per game and is a consistent offensive presence, shooting 47.4% from the field and an impressive 39.6% from beyond the arc. He also contributes 4.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game, showcasing his versatility.
- Creighton Morisch: The senior center is a dominant force in the paint, averaging 11.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, which ranks 3rd in the NSIC. He also leads the team in blocks with 1.6 per game. Morisch's efficient scoring (52.2% field-goal percentage) and defensive presence make him a cornerstone for the Cougars.
- Taylen Ashley: The redshirt freshman has been a spark plug for the Cougars, averaging 12.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. Ashley is a deadly shooter, connecting on 41.2% of his three-point attempts and 44.4% overall from the field.
- Kyle Ingwerson: Ingwerson is a key contributor on both ends of the court, averaging 10.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He's a reliable shooter from beyond the arc, hitting 35.4% of his three-point attempts.
- Shawn Warrior: Known for his physicality and toughness, Warrior averages 9.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. He is a defensive anchor, with 15 blocks and 14 steals this season.
Keys to Victory for the Cougars
- Control the Boards: Leveraging their rebounding edge against Minot and Moorhead will be critical to creating second-chance opportunities and limiting opponents' scoring. USF must capitalize on their +7.7 rebounding margin advantage.
- Defensive Pressure: Disrupting Minot's high-powered offense and Moorhead's efficient shooters will be essential. USF must close out on three-point attempts and force contested shots, particularly against Minot's 38.5% three-point shooting.
- Minimize Turnovers: Against disciplined defenses, USF must prioritize ball security to maximize offensive efficiency. Reducing their 15.2 turnovers per game will be crucial against these well-coached opponents.
- Perimeter Scoring: The Cougars' shooters, led by Ashley, Puetz, and Ingwerson, will need to capitalize on opportunities from deep. Consistent perimeter shooting could be the difference-maker in both matchups.
Fan Information
- Tickets: Get your tickets for this weekend here.
- Stream: Watch live on the NSIC Network.
- Live Stats: Follow along with live statistics here.
- Radio: Tune in to KWSN 98.1 FM / 1230 AM with Tom Frederick on the call.
- Social Media: Get updates on Twitter (@USFCougarsMBB) and Instagram (@USFCougarsMBB).
